The third generation of the compact BMW is now available. If you look back a little further and throw a spotlight on the second generation as a used car, you can see that it did quite well in the general inspection, and it did well to very well in the ADAC breakdown statistics.

An absolute rarity in the compact class, which ensures velvety, sporty driving performance: the small BMW was also built with an in-line six-cylinder. But three-cylinder engines also found their way under the long front hood of the 1 Series. The “Auto Bild TÜV Report 2023” certifies that the Munich model has a decent, if not perfect, balance sheet in the main inspection (HU).

Model history

After the start of the series in 2004, the 1 Series of the 2nd generation under consideration went on sale in 2011, where it was available as a new car until 2019. Said three-cylinder came with the facelift of 2015, which also promised better assistance systems, more powerful and at the same time more economical engines.

body variants

With a steep rear, there is the 1er as a three-door and as a five-door. Derivatives as a coupé and convertible were also launched. BMW marketed this as a 2 Series until 2021.

Dimensions

Strengthen

According to the TÜV report, the HU drive shafts and steering system prove to be “very robust”, and the axle suspensions do not weaken structurally either. Rust is not an issue; positive marks also for turn signals and rear lights as well as the foot brake. At least at an average level: brake lines and brake hoses. The exhaust lasts a long time.

weaknesses

Already at the first HU appointment, the 1er often presents with oil loss, which “relatively gets better with age”. The emissions test (AU) is “an issue” and is therefore not always passed without problems. From the second check, defective parking brakes accumulate. Front lighting and low beam spoil the balance in the lighting chapter in the first and then again in the third and fourth HU.

breakdown behavior

In the ADAC breakdown statistics, the small BMW performs well to very well in all years. The focal point of defects is the ignition coil in examples from the first registration years 2013 and 2014 with a petrol engine – but not to the extent that the balance sheet would be badly clouded.

The engine

Market prices (according to “DAT Marktspiegel” from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand with statistically expected kilometers):